Edward Teach Brewing confirms new ownership, addresses former owner’s assault charge

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Edward Teach Brewing says it has been under new ownership since mid-July, weeks before its former owner was charged in an alleged assault at a Wilmington restaurant.

In a statement posted Thursday, the brewery said it officially came under the ownership and management of Amy Ottaway on July 14, 2025, replacing longtime owner Gary Sholar. The brewery said the transition was for business reasons unrelated to the July incident. Ottoway is Sholar’s sister and trustee of ETB Trust, which now controls the business.

“We were surprised and saddened to read yesterday’s reports about an incident at LongHorn Steakhouse in July, reportedly involving our prior owner. Like most of you, our employees first heard about that incident through yesterday’s news,” the statement reads. “We were waiting to share this news until all ABC permits and other paperwork were finalized, because we wanted to make that announcement the right way… Through all of this, our incredible staff has been the heartbeat of Edward Teach Brewing. They’ve stayed dedicated, positive, and ready to welcome you back.”

According to the brewery, the taproom has been closed for several months while repairs and restoration work were completed following storm damage.

According to the N.C. Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission, Edward Teach Brewing’s permits for malt beverage on premises and unfortified wine on premises were canceled June 2, 2025.

Meanwhile, an amended annual filing report from the NC Secretary of State’s website dated August 1 shows Sholar as the Trustee.

Background on the charges

Wilmington police said the incident happened July 23 at LongHorn Steakhouse on International Drive. According to investigators, Sholar had a dog with him inside the restaurant and was allegedly feeding it at the table. An employee told him it was a health code violation and offered to package food in a doggy bag.

Police said Sholar responded by yelling obscenities and insults for an extended period before being told to leave for disrupting other customers. As the employee reached to remove a plate, Sholar allegedly grabbed it and threw it at the worker’s head.

Court documents state the porcelain plate cut the victim’s scalp, requiring several stitches and causing a hairline fracture of the skull. The victim was taken to Novant Health NHRMC for treatment.

Sholar was charged with assault inflicting serious injury, turned himself in on Friday, and posted a $1,000 bond.